Back by popular demand!
For more about this delightful ensemble and their debut CD, please visit here.
I was introduced to the New Orleans Night Owls, all musicians I respect deeply, a little more than two months ago at the Redwood Coast Music Festival. For that weekend, they were Hal Smith, leader, drums; Mikiya Matsuda, double bass; Bill Reinhart, banjo; Kris Tokarski, piano; Ryan Calloway, clarinet; Charlie Halloran, trombone; T.J. Muller, cornet, vocals.
Their performances combined the sprightly delicacy and precision of the best orchestral ragtime with a willingness to let loose in the best late-night-who-cares? way. And the jazz scholars in the audience grin at the echoes of Bunk Johnson, Clancy Hayes, Mutt Carey, and of course Jelly Roll Morton.
I shared the first half of their set a few days ago here; now, four more gems.
GRACE AND BEAUTY:
T.J. Muller’s hilarious vaudeville turn on MISTER JOHNSON, TURN ME LOOSE:
SAPHO:
Joe Oliver’s SNAKE RAG:
Festival producers, take note: the New Orleans Night Owls bring the best 1918 funk and yes, they do get the dancers on the floor. And in 2024, they will be at the Redwood Coast Music Festival, where pleasure thrives.
May your happiness increase!
JAZZ LIVES 